The best baby travel systems for easy days out

best baby travel systems

by Emily Gilbert |
Updated on

Whether you're off for a walk in the woods or popping into town, the best baby travel system makes getting around with your little one easy peasy. Attach the best car seat to the pushchair frame, and you can move your baby from car to pushchair and back again, without disruption.

In general, a travel system consists of a pushchair that is compatible with a Group 0+ car seat, suitable from birth to the age of 12 months. You can easily attach or detach it from the frame, and it will either clip on top of the pushchair seat component or attach directly to the chassis with the seat component removed.

Travel systems for babies often also come with a carrycot attachment, so you can use the pushchair as a lie-flat pram. It's vital when choosing a pushchair for your baby that they can lie flat in it until they're six months old to support the healthy development of their spine and lungs.

Let's face it, having a baby is one of the most expensive periods of your life, so grabbing good deals for pushchairs and car seats can be a huge help. A travel system can make for a good value way to get everything you need for taking your baby out and about in one bundle.

Best travel systems at a glance:
Best overall baby travel system overall: Joie Finiti With Sprint - Buy now on John Lewis
Best baby travel system for on the go: Mamas and Papas Ocarro - Buy now on Very
Best for a bundle: Ickle Bubba Stomp V4 - Buy now on Amazon UK
Best baby travel system for assemble: Nuna TRIV Next - Buy now on John Lewis

To help you out, we've picked out our favourites. Every year we thoroughly test and review the best new products on the market, including the best travel systems for babies. We can then bring you comprehensive reviews from real parents who've tried out the travel systems in real life. Our annual Mother&Baby Awards also help us bring you the best advice about current products on the market.

The best baby travel systems 2024

Best overall baby travel system

Award: Won Gold in the Mother&Baby Awards 2023

The Joie Finiti with Sprint bundle is suitable from birth up to 22kg, and includes a pushchair, carrycot and car seat with a base. Our tester loved that it was quick and easy to fold and unfold, and the harness on both items was also really easy to use. The Calmi isn't just a carry cot, it can be used in a car and has the security of a car seat, so there's no need to wake your sleeping baby when they're under six months, moving them from cot to car.

With an extendable UPF50+ canopy, the Joie Finiti pushchair has three backrest positions which allows for a lie-flat position, it can also be folded up with just one hand, which is very useful when you're a busy parent with your hands full. Our mum tester said, "from the minute the Joie Finiti travel system and Calmi arrived, I was impressed, arriving in just one box each. Quick and easy to build with informative manuals, the included accessories (a cup holder, rain cover and detachable pram organiser) were a nice surprise to have included as standard. The pram is quick and easy to unfold/fold with no need to double over due to the quick release on the seat."

The travel system is convenient for travelling, or just when out and about day to day, as our mum tester found. She says, "it folds flat with the seat attachment making it quick and easy to put up/pack away if in a rush or in bad weather. The harness is really easy to use on both items and the four various modes this system caters for meant that we could choose the best combination for us for that moment in time. The clever storage pockets built into the Calmi carrycot on both the outside and the inside meant that I was never without a blanket/comforter and could easily and quickly find the items rather than having to rummage in a changing bag." However, our mum tester did note that the canopy could be bigger because when the seat is fully reclined it is not covered by the canopy.

Read our full Joie Finiti review.

Pros

  • Lightweight to push
  • Ample under-seat storage
  • Durable suspension
  • One hand fold

Cons

  • Canopy doesn't completely cover the seat when fully reclined
Suitable from: Birth-four years old (or 22kg)
Harness: Five-point system
Easy to put together:Yes
Award:Gold
  • Two colour choices
  • Five-point harness system
  • Lockable swivel wheels

Best baby travel system for on the go

Mamas & Papas OcarroLorna White
Price: £1269.99

www.very.co.uk

If the grandparents-to-be are chipping in, or if you've saved hard for a top-of-the-range travel system, we think every penny is well spent on this Mamas and Papas Ocarro travel system. We love the puncture-proof off-road tyres – perfect for rural adventures in style, plus the reversible, lie-flat pushchair seat ensures maximum comfort during snoozes on the move. Our tester said, "I must admit I do love this pram!"

It is easy to use, even when carrying a baby and our mum tester said, "I love the fact that you can put it up and down using just one hand which did make my life easier (especially when caught in the rain)! I like the fact the hood comes down quite far but there's a zip to let some air in and a flap to check on your baby as you're pushing (my previous pushchair didn't have this) which does put your mind at ease, especially the first time you put your baby forward facing! Also, the fact that you can fold the pushchair down with the stroller seat on, and it folds down just as neat as it would without the seat is an added bonus as it saves time when out and about in the car! All in all these little features do make a huge difference!" However, she did note that the basket is not very easy to access, especially if you out larger items in it.

Overall, this is a stylish travel system with some great features. It is easy to use with a one hand fold, and it is also suitable for all terrains which we love. Reviewers commented that it is "extremely well built, unlike the cheaper options. Easy to manoeuvre and good range of accessories."

Read our full Mamas&Papas Ocarro review.

Pros

  • Choice of colours for all tastes
  • One-hand fold for convenience
  • Easy to carry when folded making it portable
  • Dual suspension for every terrain

Cons

  • Basket can be difficult to access with larger item
Suitable from:Birth to 22kg
Harness: Five-point
Easy to put together: Yes
Weight:13.7kg
  • Lie-back seat
  • Large extendable hood
  • Puncture-proof tyres
  • Reflective wheel rims
  • Large easy-to-access basket

Best for a bundle

If you've got a little more to spend on a travel system, you'll want to know you're getting more bang for your buck. The Ickle Bubba Stomp V4 ticks that box, and is sturdy and felt safe, according to our reviewer. It's achingly cool and stylish, yet the highly functional design is also great for parents with differing heights, with a fully adjustable handle. With this travel system, you'll get the carrycot, seat unit, i-Size car seat and Isofix base, raincover, footmuff and changing bag, all included in the price. One of our mum testers said, "You get everything you need from birth until toddler. Secondly, the look and style of the travel system is very trendy. Lastly, the comfort for the baby to me is very important. I found that it was very comfortable for the baby both sleeping and awake.

The it comes to using the travel system, parents found it easy to manoeuvre with one mum, Jo, commenting, "this pushchair was a pleasure to use! It was sturdy and felt safe. It steered well and collapsed relatively easily. It reclined nicely and the sunshade was large enough to provide good cover for my daughter. This was a great feature. I have a dog, and it pushed surprisingly well on grass and pebbles whilst walking her. The handle positioning was easy to adjust and great for my husband who is tall."

However, Eleanor, our mum tester found it hard to fold, saying, "I would change the way it folds down as I found this very difficult. This made me less fond of this product." Reviewers also commented that the hood should come down further to provide more shade.

Overall, testers were impressed and said they would recommend this travel system to other mums based on how easy it is to steer and push, as well as the fact it is lightweight and compact and looks great.

Read our full Ickle Bubba Stomp V4 Special Edition All in One Travel System with Isofix Base review.

Pros

  • Sturdy for reassurance and safety
  • Easy to connect to the car
  • Trendy and stylish
  • Lightweight and compact once folded

Cons

  • Some reviewers found it hard to fold down
Suitable from:Birth to 15kg
Harness type: Five-point
Easy to put together:Yes
Weight:6.5kg
  • 4 seating positions
  • Forward or rear-facing
  • Puncture proof tyres
  • Adjustable handle height

Best baby travel system for assemble

Nuna TRIV NextRobyn Cann

The Nuna TRIV Next was awarded Gold for Best Travel System at the Mother&Baby Awards 2024.

Another travel system that really looks and handles well, the Nuna TRIV Next, was a hit with our tester, who found it easy to assemble and was impressed at how simple it was to change the positions. She commented, "the assembly process of the pushchair was so easy, I was able to assemble the pushchair alone at 40+2 weeks pregnant. I also tried out a few of the different seat positions, and changing to the collapsible carrycot the first time I set it up and I was really impressed with how simple that was to do."

We love that the all-season seat keeps your baby warm in winter and converts to breathable mesh in summer, while the rain cover provides extra protection no matter the weather. This travel system is also compact when folded and will stay standing by itself, which is a huge bonus to many. Our mum tester said, "the one hand fold and unfold has to be my favourite feature as it makes life so much easier when collapsing the pushchair in car parks to put away in the boot, or for storing at home."I have two pushchairs and I find I use this one more as my 'grab-and-go' pram as it's much lighter." Testers were also impressed with the carrycot, noting, "I also love that the carrycot is collapsible, it makes it great for storing in the house or car."

It is important to note that our tester thought it's a good "pushchair for someone who is living in a city and not in the countryside as the suspension isn't good enough for the country." Plus, she "did find the cover of the carrycot hard to get zipped up, it was very stiff and I was concerned that the jolting would wake baby up if they were asleep inside."

This is a great travel system for travelling because it is lightweight and compact and it also works well for city life. Our tester thought, "it all felt very good quality, especially the stylish colour scheme of black, really set off by the brown leatherette handle and front bar."

Read our full Nuna TRIV Next review

Pros

  • Lightweight and compact for travelling
  • Easy to use and simple to assemble
  • Looks stylish and feels great quality

Cons

  • Suspension isn't great, especially for rough terrain
  • The cover of the carrycot is stiff to zip up
Recommended use:Suitable from birth to 22 kg
Weight:8.72 kg
Dimensions:L 85 x W 57.5 x H 105.5 cm
Folded:L 31.5 x W 57.5 x H 69 cm
  • Compact fold: Folds up quickly with one hand and stands on its own, making it simple to use out-and-about as well as store away.
  • All-wheel suspension: Spring suspension seat technology, all-wheel suspension and large tough, foam-filled rear wheels mean you're ready for smooth rides.
  • Travel system compatible: simply attach any infant carrier to the included post adapter and customise the tilt to baby's needs. It also easily converts to a pram with the included post adapter, compatible with the TRIV series carry cot.

Best baby travel system for quick interchanges

The Venicci Upline 3in1 + Isofix Base Travel System was awarded Silver for Best Travel System at the Mother&Baby Awards 2024.

If you're looking for a travel system to use in towns or cities, then the Venicci Upline 3in1 + Isofix Base Travel System could be what you're looking for. Our tester thought it was easy to use and folded down really small, even fitting into a small car with room to spare, she commented, "it was really easy to put together with clear instructions and it’s easy and quick to interchange the different components. The pushchair and bassinet are great, folding down nice and small so that they fit easily even in a small car such as a Fiesta, with a bit of room to spare!"

This product has a long lifespan, lasting from birth to four years, and comes with a carrycot, seat unit, car seat (with adapters), changing bag, foot muff, insect netting and rain covers. Our mum tester commented, "one of the real bonuses for us of this Venicci Upline Travel System is that the seat of the pushchair can be used from the newborn age. It is also really handy that the car seat has ISOFIX incorporated into it, so that the car seat can be securely fitted into many a vehicle without the need of a base."

There are so many features that we love about this travel system, however the basket is a bit too small. Our tester noted that the "basket isn’t huge but big enough for a change bag and a couple of coats." Overall, this is a stylish travel system that is ideal for everyday use, mainly in urban areas however our tester commented that "the travel system seems to have large wheels which would make it good for lots of terrains although I have yet to try this."

Overall, our mum tester thought, "really like the look and quality of this travel system. Looks upmarket compared to many other brands and has some unique features, eg attachable nappy bag and flap under the stroller that you can put down when putting items in then lift up to secure them in place. Both the bassinet and stroller attachments are sturdy and car seat is comfortable and safe."

Read our full Venicci Upline 3in1 + Isofix Base Travel System review.

Pros

  • Modern design and luxurious finish
  • Water-repellent fabric
  • Large with solid wheels
  • Cozy footmuff included
  • Adjustable footrest

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Seat unit can be folded in rear and forward-facing position when attached to the frame.
  • Cozy footmuff included
  • Adjustable footrest
  • Carrycot suitable for overnight sleeping
  • Quick, one-hand fold
  • Additional suspension
  • Compact size and lightweight

Best baby travel system for simplicity

Award: Won Silver in the Mother&Baby Awards 2023

The Venicci Tinum SE Stylish Black 3in1 travel system won a silver award at the 2023 M&B Awards, and with good reason. One reviewer said she loved the one-hand fold, and how it was compact too, commenting, "it is so easy to fold and unfold the pushchair with one hand and there is no need to remove the seat which is so handy for me."

It has a lightweight frame, easy-to-fold mechanism and modern design, as well as having a pram, car seat and carrycot included, it comes complete with all the accessories needed to make going out and about with your little one as easy as possible. These include a footmuff, changing bag with mat, rain cover and mosquito net. Our mum tester said, "this product is extremely user-friendly. Everything about the pushchair is easy to do, with strong smooth mechanisms. The pushchair seat and bassinet are both really easy to attach and detach. Everything feels great quality."

Perfect for all terrains, our mum tester said, "the nice big chunky wheels make it great for all terrain and it is really smooth to push." However, it doesn't compromise on style with one reviewer adding, "I love the design of the (very sleek and stylish) travel system from Venicci - the glossy black and rose gold are gorgeous, and the foot muff insert lining feels very plush (although too thick for use in the summer!)."

However, some mums were not impressed by the car seat and one mum tester said, "I'd definitely change the car seat. Everything about the pushchair itself it exceptionally well made, easy to use and high quality with many amazing clever features, I love it. The car seat massively lets this down as a travel system because the quality of the car seat just does not match the pushchair at all. It feels cheap, with rough material and is not easy to use."

Overall though, testers were pleased with the quality of the travel system and thought it was comfortable for babies and toddlers. "My daughter seemed very comfortable in this and was well protected from the sun by the extendable hood," while another mum added, "My baby found this push chair comfortable and didn’t seem stressed out when he was in it. I really enjoyed the foot chair feature."

Read our full Tinum SE Stylish Black 3in1 review.

Pros

  • One-handed folding for easy use
  • Looks stylish and is comfortable for your little one
  • Big wheels for all terrain

Cons

  • Some mums struggled at first to attach the car seat to the base
Suitable from: Birth to 22kg
Harness:Five-point system
Easy to put together:Most of the time
Award: Silver
  • 360-degree spin front wheels
  • Three-position adjustable reclining pushchair seat
  • Three-position adjustable footrest

Best baby travel system for easy use

Award: Won Gold in the Mother&Baby Awards 2022

Kinderkraft EVERYDAY is a multifunctional 3-in-1 baby stroller with a large carrycot (with a handle) and a soft mattress; it has bamboo viscose fibres in the cover for good ventilation and antibacterial properties. Our reviewer loved that it has good suspension and is easy to use on different terrains. Together with the Kiddy Evoluna car seat, this makes a comprehensive travel system and the car seat lies flat, both inside and outside the car. Our mum tester commented, "this is a great pram to use as the bassinet sits higher up than others. This means it is easier to see the baby and also lift them in and out. It has good suspension and is relatively easy to use on different terrains."

The sunshade is excellent and clips on to the hood and base of the bassinet meaning good shade cover. Plus our mum tester, Charlotte, added, "I loved the design feature of the window in the hood of the stroller so I could see baby at all times." Reviewers also loved the added features, commenting, "there is a useful cupholder and also storage pocket within the bassinet for keys/phones etc."

In terms of usability, our reviewers thought this was a comfortable pushchair and our mum tester, Charlotte, said, "the 360 degree wheels made the pushchair really easy to manoeuvre on all terrains including muddy ones!" Mum tester, Louise, also agreed, saying, "The wheels are a good size and it is easy to manoeuvre on different terrains. The wheels are lockable is desired."

Although this travel system is easy to fold, unfortunately, it does not stay folded. Our mum tester noted, "Once folded there is no way of keeping the whole system together in a tight compact way. Instead it opens out when trying to lift it to get in the boot of the car. This makes it extremely difficult to move due to the size and weight of the stroller."

However, overall mums were pleased with this travel system and felt it was good value for money. One mum tester said "the Everyday 3-in-1 stroller is amazing value for money. For the price you get so much all at a great quality. This product sees your little one from birth through to toddler. I loved that the stroller also came with every accessory you could need including a changing bag for mum complete with changing mat, cup holder and bag hooks for the pushchair."

Read our full EVERYDAY 3-in-1 Pushchair review.

Pros

  • Easy to use and adjust
  • Spacious basket for shopping
  • Good suspension for different terrains

Cons

  • Quite heavy
  • Doesn't come with anything to hold the stroller in place once folded to keep it compact
Suitable from:Birth to 22kg
Harness:Five-point
Easy to put together: Yes
Weight: Seat: 4.5kg, Frame: 9.8kg, Carrycot: 5.9kg
Award: Gold
  • AUTO-LOCK after folding
  • All-wheel suspension
  • Telescopic handle with 3-step adjustment
  • Central foot brake

Best baby travel system for newborns

Silver Cross ReefAshley Blattner

The Silver Cross Reef pushchair is a multi-terrain travel system, which is suitable from newborn to 22kg. Our reviewer thought the system was well-designed and sturdy and loved the one-hand fold, but one downside is its weight. This might be an issue for those who have had a c-section, or struggle moving heavier objects out of a car boot. However, the car seat is very sturdy and comfortable and was a hit with the tester's baby. Our tester said "if you find that you are comfortable with the weight then you would be hard-pressed to find a better travel system out there. It is very well designed, intuitive to use, safe, sturdy, secure, user-friendly and very good to look at."

The travel system is great for all weathers. Or tester, dad Ashley, said, "having a winter baby, one of my main concerns was with insulation and making sure my Princess stays warm in the subzero temperatures. I'm happy to say that the padding of the mattress and the quilting of the wall lining in the cot makes for an extremely cosy interior that stays toasty warm." However, he also added that the carrycot will "cater for the warmest of summer months as well. On the front and back of the cot are little ventilation flaps that can be opened and closed. These give a flow of air through the pram and will keep it cool in the summer. All these features in a cot that is approved for overnight use."

Read our full Silver Cross Reef pushchair review.

Pros

  • Feels safe and sturdy
  • Looks and feels luxurious
  • Well-designed and user-friendly

Cons

  • Heavy
Suitable from: Newborn to 22kg (approx. 4 years)
Easy to put together: Yes
Weight:Chassis: 8kg Seat: 4.5kg
  • Features the Genius™ harness system with magnetic buckle
  • Sustainable outer fabrics
  • Vegan leather handle
  • Large, easy-to-access basket with a 5kg capacity
  • One-handed fold

Best baby travel system for style

Fox 5Emily Gilbert

If you're looking for something that uses sustainable products, then the Bugaboo Fox 5 could be the right travel system for you. It is a versatile and stylish solution for parents seeking a premium pushchair.

Our tester loved its lightweight design, and it seamlessly transitions between a comfortable carrycot for infants and a reversible seat for older children. The Bugaboo Fox 5 features a robust chassis, all-terrain wheels, and adjustable suspension for a smooth ride.

Its modular design and high-quality materials make it a top choice for modern, active parents. Our tester, Ashley, said "it is impeccably well-designed, managing to be both totally functional and stylish. The fact that sustainable products have been used to manufacture it is a huge plus point in this modern age. The suspension system makes the ride silky smooth and coupled with the lightness and quality steering makes it very easy to push and manoeuvre."

While it is a sturdy and safe pram, our reviewers did find it tricky to put together at first and it takes a bit of patience. Our tester also found the brake pedal was a bit small, saying, "If I had one wish, it would be that the brake pedal is ever so slightly bigger but this may simply be down to my clumsy clown shoes."

Overall though, our tester liked the travel system commenting, "the Fox 5 is a brilliant all-rounder with very few drawbacks and definitely value for money."

Read our full Bugaboo Fox 5 review.

Pros

  • Stylish appearance
  • Lightweight but strong
  • Brilliant steering and handling
  • Fits into the boot without removing the seat

Cons

  • Can be difficult to first put together
Pushchair weight:10.4 - 12.2 kg
Age range:From birth to approx. 4 years old (max. 22 kg/50 lbs)
Wheels:Front wheels: 22 cm/8.5 in - Rear wheels: 30 cm/12 in
Handlebar height:92 - 108 cm
Seat:Width: 39 cm - Length: 50 cm (extendable by 10 cm with the canopy and footrest)
Seat capacity:22 kg/50 lbs
Basket:10 kg
Two-piece compact fold:89 x 53 x 34 cm
One-piece self-standing fold:44 x 60 x 90 cm
Unfolded dimensions:93 x 60 x 105 cm
  • One-hand fold with a self-standing design
  • Reversible seat can extend by 10 cm
  • Large puncture-proof wheels & advanced suspension
  • Sturdy yet lightweight

Best baby travel system for vibrant design

One thing about Cosatto products is you can never call them boring. Their fun designs are perfectly eye-catching for parents and kiddies too, and this travel system, the Cosatto Giggle 3in1 Travel System & Accessories Bundle, is no different. The bundle includes the chassis, convertible pram to seat unit, car seat (with adaptors) and raincover. Our tester thought it was brilliant for the price, but would have liked a larger basket and felt the rails scratched too easily. She said, "I am very pleased with my pram. It looks amazing and it is easy to drive."

While it is stylish for life about town, it can handle the rough terrain of the countryside too. Our tester commented, "I have tried it so far on the pavement but went off-road too." Design is a major plus point for Cosatto and our reviewer said, "my little one loves to observe cute foxes inside." However, she did add that the "rails are a little too easy to scratch and the basket could be bigger. "

Overall it is an easy to manoeuvre pram with a great design. Our tester said, "I highly recommend this pram, you can't get a better design at this price. Love it!"

Pros

  • Fun design
  • Three wheels for easy manoeuvrability
  • Lightweight chassis
  • UPF100+ protection sunshade hood

Cons

  • Storage basket could be bigger
Suitable from:Birth to 13kg/29lbs
Harness:Five-point
Easy to put together:May take some getting used to
Weight:15.6kg
  • Multi-recline duo-directional seat
  • Flat-folding lightweight chassis
  • Stitched leatherette handle
  • Quick-release removable wheels
  • 4 position recline

Best baby travel system for excellent storage

Joie versatraxRobyn Cann

The Joie Versatrax is another stylish travel system, which is free-standing when folded. Appealing to those who are eco-conscious, this travel system is made from 153 recycled bottles. It comprises of a carrycot, infant carrier and stroller, and was easy to push according to our tester. Along with the travel system, you'll get a raincover, bumper bar, cupholder and adapters. Our reviewer said, "I found it really easy to push and liked the colour and materials used, it felt really stylish."

Comfort is a big plus for this pram and our mum tester said, "my son found this buggy really comfortable and had no problems falling and staying asleep in it." Reviewers were also really impressed with the size of the basket, commenting, "the basket is really nice and big so I can fit all of my shopping bags in there when I go to the supermarket. This is a great advantage as I don't always have use of the car so it means I can get more shopping in one trip rather than having to go every day. We often like to take picnics, a blanket, football etc when we go for days out so the big basket is very useful once again."

Reviewers did find that the pram quite hard to adjust and mum tester, Laura, said, "The opening of closing of the pram could be better, easier and less fiddly." They also thought it was quite large which can be problematic when out and about, noting, "the pram is quite wide, and a little tricky to manoeuvre through narrow door ways."

Overall, mum tester, Hannah, was impressed and said, "The pram keeps on surprising and surpassing me - super smooth wheels, huge canopy for extra ventilation, lots comes included - rain cover, cup holder, hidden zip and pocket storage in huge basket! Super elegant black matt frame with brown leatherette and a stylish grey flannel all encompassed seat makes this so trendy and good looking. Handlebar swivels so no need to remove. Easy usability from birth to preschool."

Read our full Joie Versatrax review.

Pros

  • Comfortable for baby
  • Large basket for shopping
  • Excellent foldability for quick folding
  • Carry handle included

Cons

  • Not as easy to adjust compared to other prams
  • Quite big in size
Suitable from:Birth to 22kg
Harness type:Five-point
Easy to put together:Yes
Weight:11.7kg
  • Rearward and forward-facing seat
  • One-hand, instant flash fold mechanism
  • Extendable UPF50+ and water-repellent canopy
  • Adjustable calf support
  • All-wheel suspension with fake air tyres

Best stream-lined baby travel system

The Maxi-Cosi Zelia Luxe 2 pushchair is the perfect 2-in-1 pushchair for cool, relaxed city living. This travel system can fit into a small flat without compromising your baby's comfort, and is suitable for newborn to 4 years. Our mum tester thought, "this would be an ideal pushchair for grandparents or other carers who are not using it all the time." The Maxi-Cosi Zelia 2 pushchair is the second version of the Maxi-Cosi Zelia stroller, which won bronze in the Mother&Baby Awards in 2019. Our testers agreed it was better suited as a second pushchair, as it wasn't as robust as some of the market, and more suited to a city environment.

Despite not feeling as sturdy as other prams , our testers thought it was comfortable to push commenting, "I really loved the Zelia Travel System. It was lovely to steer and push and easy to slot into place." Plus, it is suitable for a wide range of ages and our mum tester said, "I especially like that it is suitable for all ages. I like that I have the option to use it if I were to have another child with the Pebble Plus car seat. This is a bonus as it's so much easier to have it all as one rather than separate car seats and buggies."

Read our full Maxi-Cosi Zelia review.

Pros

  • Good value for money
  • Comfy and cosy for all ages
  • A great option as a second pram

Cons

  • Could be sturdier
Suitable from:Birth to four-years
Harness type:Five-point
Easy to put together:Yes
Weight:10.25kg
  • Integrated carrycot
  • One-hand fold
  • Large basket
  • Baby car seat adapters are included

Best all-in-one baby travel system

Ickle Bubba AltimaClare Mulhooly

Another travel system with a one-hand fold, loved by our reviewers, is the Ickle Bubba Altima. Our mum tester, Clare, thought this was a great travel system, saying, "it’s packed full of useful features, like lots of breathable air flow mesh which will keep baby cool, and the unique selling point of being able to fold the pram with the seat unit still in place, in a simple, one-handed action. " Although she did add that it takes a while to get the knack of the one-handed fold.

Suitable from birth up until 22kg, this is a great travel system for longevity and our mum tester commented: "It’s clear that the Altima travel system is centred around functionality, comfort and style. I love the fact that I won’t be forking out for a new model when she outgrows the new born carrycot, but instead I’ll change to the seat unit. From easily switching between parent-facing and world-facing positions to coming with a cosy, padded seat liner, the seat unit has so many great features. Then with its side impact protection, pop-out impact panels and a supportive newborn liner, I felt happy in the knowledge that my newborn baby would be safe in the car seat while on the move. The car seat and ISOFIX base meet all the necessary standards for car seat installation."

Mum tester Clare notes that "with all its useful features at a reasonable price, it feels like the Altima is a great investment." She also adds, "It’s compact and easy to store, which will be a great space saver when parked up in our front room, or while putting it in the car boot."

Pros

  • Lightweight and easy to manoeuvre
  • Compact when folded
  • Great for longevity from birth to toddler

Cons

  • Initially tricky to get to grips with one-hand fold
Suitable from:Birth to 22kg
Harness: Five-point
Easy to put together:  Yes
Weight: 9kg (chassis with wheels)
  • One handed fold
  • Compact
  • Suitable up to 22kg
  • Includes cup holder and rain cover

Best trending baby travel system

The BabaBing! Raffi looks stylish, and one reviewer thought that it was amazing quality for the price, saying, "the Raffi Pushchair is perfect for my little one due this year, and such amazing quality for the price." However, this travel system doesn't come with a car seat, which would be an extra cost.

Despite not including a car seat, reviewers were impressed with the number of accessories, as well as the carrycot and seat unit, it also comes with a 2-in-1 raincover, a waterproof footmuff and car seat adapters. One reviewer said, "everything comes with it which makes life so much easier."

The pram is easy to use and it is lightweight making it great for travelling. However it doesn't compromise of sturdiness and our reviewer said, it "has a nice sturdy frame but isn't too heavy. I really love it, and can't wait to use it."

Pros

  • Stylish
  • Easy to use
  • Sturdy one-hand fold
  • Generous storage basket
  • Reasonably lightweight

Cons

  • Car seat not included as part of the travel system
Suitable from:Birth to 15kg
Harness type:Five-point
Easy to put together:Yes
Weight: 12.5kg
  • Easy one-handed folding
  • Forward- and rear-facing seat
  • Anti-reflux carrycot with 3-position incline/recline
  • 2-in-1 rain and sun cover
  • Made with recycled fabrics

Best baby travel system for a compact fold

Award: Won Bronze in the Mother&Baby Award2022

The Rose Gold Marble Belgravia Travel System was designed with celeb mum Dani Dyer as part of her Cherish range. Its design adapts as your family grows and includes a bassinet which can attach to the stroller frame for family strolls and fresh air, eventually progressing to the reversible seat. Our mum tester said, "this travel system is amazing. It's so easy to put up and fold with one hand, and switch between seat styles, which is everything you need In a travel system. The fact it all comes as a package and you don't need to worry about finding the correct accessories anywhere else, the box has it all."

Like the Ickle Bubba, it comes with a built-in buggy board for tots, which we love, and detachable wheels for compact storage at home or on the go. It is also really well priced for such a versatile product, and folds down to a compact size, perfect when you have a lot to fit in your boot! Plus our mum tester was impressed with the shopping basket, saying, "the shopping basket being large with zips is a godsend."

However, some reviewers thought it was tricky to assemble, commenting, "I would change the design of the frame to make it more sturdy and easier to unfold (give clearer instructions in the manual if not). This would save even more time when setting up." While many loved the design, saying, "I would choose this travel system above any other because I love the boldness of the design", others felt that it was limiting, adding, " I would choose the pattern to make more gender neutral as I did have a lot of comments when putting my newborn baby boy in the bassinet."

However, it is a practical choice for travel with mum Joanna-Belle, noting, "the fact it folds up so small, means that travelling with a child of any age with all their accessories, is the biggest selling point for me, it can fit in the smallest of car boots with zero effort."

Read our full Dani Dyer Rose Gold Marble Belgravia Travel System review.

Pros

  • Compact fold, great for small cars
  • Larger seat for prolonged use
  • In-built buggy board

Cons

  • Tricky to assemble
  • Some parents didn't consider it gender-neutral in design
Suitable from: Birth to 22kg
Harness: Five-point
Weight:18kg
Award:Bronze
  • Height adjustable push handle
  • Multi-position reclining seat with 5-point harness
  • 2 position adjustable and extendable leg rest
  • 3 position, extendable canopy with viewing window

What to look for in the best travel system

Convenience is the main benefit, as you can transfer your baby to and from a pushchair without removing them from their car seat. This is less disruptive for your child and saves time and stress. A travel system is often more expensive and sometimes bulkier than a standard pushchair, so it's only worthwhile if a car is your main form of transport.

It's important to keep in mind that different travel systems are compatible with different car seats, although there is some crossover. The most important thing about buying the best travel system is to make sure it will fit in your car.

Here are some things to look out for when considering your purchase.

Shopping basket

A big basket is essential! It should be large enough to hold everything you need when you're out with your baby, including the rain cover and your baby changing bag. The basket should be accessible, even when the carrycot is attached, or the pushchair seat is fully reclined.

Seat recline

The recommended sleeping position for babies is flat on their back, so a pushchair seat that reclines fully flat is a must for naps in the pushchair. It should be easy (and quiet!) to adjust with your baby in the seat.

Handles

A height-adjustable handlebar ensures the pushchair is comfortable for you, your partner or anyone else who might use it regularly. Check that it's easy to adjust and comfortable to hold.

Car seat

Is the car seat included in the price, or do you have to buy it separately? Factor in the price of the base, too, and don't forget car-seat adaptors to attach it to the chassis.

Carrycot

Babies shouldn't sit in car seats for more than two hours at a time - we've looked at the research into how long a baby should stay in a car seat - including when it's attached to a pushchair chassis. Choose a travel system with a comfy lie-flat carrycot. Your baby will outgrow it by six months old, so check how bulky it is to store – some are cleverly designed to convert to an upright seat.

Baby travel system
©Getty Images

Seat direction

A travel system with a reversible seat unit means you can choose which way your baby faces. A parent-facing seat encourages your baby's communication skills, but an inquisitive toddler might prefer to face where they're going. There are regulations and advice on how to keep your baby rear-facing for longer.

Accessories

Some travel systems come with coordinating accessories such as a footmuff or change bag. Think about which ones you actually need and whether they're included in the price.

Fold mechanism

A travel system will be in and out of your car boot. Choose one that's compact and easy to fold, leaving room for shopping or luggage.

Brake

The brake should be comfortably positioned and easy to operate without the risk of applying it by accident or scuffing your shoes. Check how reliable it feels and whether it's easy to release.

Wheels

All-terrain wheels make for easy manoeuvrability on muddy walks. Smaller, solid wheels make light work of city pavements and shiny shop floors. If you're likely to switch between different types of terrain, go for lockable, swivel wheels.

Do I need a baby travel system?

A baby travel system can be convenient has they come with all the travel essentials you need for your baby. They are often good value, however if you buy an ISOFIX car seat to stay in your car, you wouldn't need a travel system that comes with a car seat.

What other things do I need to consider when buying a baby travel system?

Not all infant car seats can be attached to all pushchairs, and you may need to buy adaptors. If you'd prefer an i-Size car seat, which sits your baby in the safer rear-facing position until they are at least 15 months old, you'll need to choose a pushchair frame that's compatible. If you want to keep your child rear-facing in the car beyond 15 months, you'll need an extended rear-facing car seat. However, these are designed to stay in your car, so a travel system isn't an option.

The car seat will either clip on top of the pushchair's seat component or attach directly to the chassis with the seat component removed. Adapters are sometimes required to fix the car seat onto the pushchair or chassis. Check if these are included. If they aren't, find out what the additional cost will be.

What about the pushchair?

A travel system often has a seat component that enables it to be used as a 'normal' pushchair. Many mums use the car seat clipped into the frame when their baby is very young, using the larger seat component as their little one grows. If you intend to keep your newborn in the pushchair for long periods, you will need a travel system with a fully reclining seat component.

Newborns should only remain in car seats for a few hours at a time, as lying horizontally is better for their breathing and healthy spine development. Some travel systems also offer the option of a pram-style carrycot. While this can add expense, the carrycot can double as a Moses basket and portable travel cot.

Can you use a travel system for toddlers?

Only Group 0+ car seats will fit on the travel system. These will be outgrown at around 12-15 months. Most mums will continue to use the travel system with the seat component fitted after that.

For toddlers, a seat that reclines for naps is useful, but it doesn't have to be fully horizontal. Some pushchair seats are reversible, so your baby can face you, to begin with, but face outwards to get a better view of the world as they get older. For older children, you may want to look into the best car seat for 4-year-olds.

How easy is it to fold?

All travel systems fold up so that they can be stowed in a car boot. Try out the folding mechanism in the shop – your 'tricky' might be another person's 'easy'. Consider that you may sometimes need to hold your baby while you fold and unfold the chassis. You'll also have to lift the folded pushchair chassis in and out of the car boot, so consider its weight – anything over 10kg could be a struggle.

How big is your car boot?

Travel systems are more compact than ever, but some models are still pretty bulky to allow for all the extra functionality they offer. Before you buy one, check it fits in your car boot. You can always remove the carrycot or seat unit from the chassis and store it on your back seat. Although, this will limit space in your car for other passengers.

Can I use a second hand travel system?

While it can be perfectly fine to use a second hand travel system, it is not advised to use a second hand car seat unless you are absolutely sure that it has never been in an accident.

It would be advisable to only use second hand if it's from a very close relative or friend.

What is the difference between a 2in1 and 3in1 travel system?

A 3in1 travel system includes a car seat, carry cot and a pushchair all on the same frame, where as a 2in1 would only include the car seat and pushchair.

The bonus to both is that they are interchangeable with a car seat, which can be handy when you're out of the house and don't want to disturb your baby if they fall asleep.

Emily Gilbert is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby and has written for the website and previously the magazine for six years. Specialising in product reviews, Emily is the first to know about all the exciting new releases in the parenting industry.

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